---
title: "Recreational Fishing Data - NOAA Fisheries"
url: https://stacklist.com/card/7f859f67-259d-4c05-a74c-72ae9da74a91
source_url: "https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/recreational-fishing-data"
stack: https://stacklist.com/c/business/stack/2ffca84f-329f-41d6-b8e3-550b11d7167c
summary: "NOAA Fisheries' Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) is a state-regional-federal partnership that develops and implements recreational fishing surveys to estimate total catch and support sustainable fish stock management. The agency is transitioning to a new partnership-driven data framework, the Recreational Angler Partnership Improvement Directive, with workshops planned for summer and fall 2026."
tags: "recreational-fishing, noaa-fisheries, marine-surveys, catch-data, stock-assessment, fisheries-management, mrip"
key_entities: "NOAA Fisheries (organization), Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) (concept), Recreational Angler Partnership Improvement Directive (concept), Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission (organization), Stock Assessment (concept), Florida Keys (location), National Saltwater Angler Registry (concept), Matt McIntosh (person)"
classification: "reference"
content_hash: "sha256:15e31cdfbf1982a88e7d02785408e335017e5905084b8e0e397c664abfe0311c"
acp_version: "0.2"
token_counts_approximate: 5167
visibility: public
agent_accessible: true
status: "final"
---

# Recreational Fishing Data - NOAA Fisheries

Recreational Fishing Data Recreational Fishing Data Learn how NOAA Fisheries' Marine Recreational Information Program works with recreational fishing data to help scientists, managers, and the fishing community. Important Update: NOAA Fisheries is transitioning to a new recreational fishing data enterprise that improves trust and confidence in recreational fishing data and management. The resulting framework will build on a strong state-federal partnership to give stock assessment scientists and decision-makers access to the most accurate recreational catch and effort data. This partnership-driven data framework co-created with commissions and state agencies will replace the Marine Recreational Information Program. Learn more about the transition phase—called the  Recreational Angler Partnership Improvement Directive —which will kick off with a series of workshops slated for summer and fall 2026.  NOAA Fisheries’ Marine Recreational Information Program is the state-regional-federal partnership that develops, improves, and implements a national network of recreational fishing surveys to estimate total recreational catch. Our recreational fisheries statistics help scientists and managers assess and maintain sustainable fish stocks. NOAA Fisheries maintains a central role in developing data collection and estimation methods , administering recreational fishing surveys , and producing recreational fisheries statistics . Regional and state partners identify data collection priorities , coordinate survey operations, and participate in quality assurance and quality control procedures . There are several ways to access our recreational fishing data. You can use the query tool to filter recreational fisheries statistics by time series, geographic area, species, mode, and other characteristics. You can also download our public-use datasets and template programs to perform your own custom analyses. To be notified of updates to our data, estimates, and queries, subscribe to our email service . Scientific Integrity NOAA Fisheries has made significant improvements to how we collect, analyze, and report recreational fishing data. We continue to leverage emerging science and statistical expertise to meet stock assessment and management needs. Our survey and estimation methods undergo extensive testing, evaluation, and peer review . Our survey and data standards help ensure the integrity of our data collection efforts and the quality of our recreational fisheries statistics. And our data review process minimizes the potential for errors in the information we publish. Featured News Recreational anglers enjoy a day on the water in the Florida Keys. NOAA/Matt McIntosh Feature Story Future of the Catch: the Modernization of Recreational Red Snapper Data Collection Southeast Feature Story NOAA Fisheries Certifies Two State Recreational Fishing Surveys to Improve Catch Estimates Southeast Feature Story NOAA Fisheries, Partners Collaborate to Strengthen Review of Recreational Catch Estimates New England/Mid-Atlantic Pacific Islands Southeast Recreational fishermen hold up two red snapper during a day fishing in the Gulf. Photo courtesy of Captain Grayson Shepard Feature Story NOAA Fisheries and Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission Announce Red Snapper Data Improvement Projects Southeast View More News More Information About MRIP Data Queries Data User Handbook Survey Design and Statistical Methods Manual Outreach Materials Research Projects National Saltwater Angler Registry Public Access Fishing Site Register Notices & Rules Fisheries Reglamentación Propuesta: Requisitos de Reportaje Electrónicos New England/Mid-Atlantic Southeast New England/Mid-Atlantic Southeast Fisheries Proposed Rule: Electronic Reporting Requirements for Atlantic Highly Migratory Species New England/Mid-Atlantic Southeast New England/Mid-Atlantic Southeast Fisheries Final 2024 and Projected 2025 Atlantic Bluefish Specifications New England/Mid-Atlantic New England/Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Update to Red Snapper Calibrations and Gray Snapper Catch Limits Southeast Southeast Fisheries Amendment 56: Modifications to Catch Limits, Sector Allocation, and Recreational Fishing Seasons for Gulf of Mexico Gag Southeast Southeast More Fisheries Notices & Rules Bulletins NOAA Fisheries Announces the 2026 Gag Recreational Season in Federal Waters of the Gulf Southeast Southeast NOAA Fisheries Issues Exempted Fishing Permits Authorizing State Management of Recreational Harvested Red Snapper in the South Atlantic in 2026 Southeast Southeast NOAA Fisheries Announces the 2026 Gulf of America Red Snapper Recreational Federal For-Hire Season Southeast Southeast NOAA Fisheries Seeks Comments on Four Applications for Exempted Fishing Permits to Pilot Test New Data Collection Methods and State Management Strategies for South Atlantic Red Snapper Southeast Southeast Reopening of the 2025 Federal Gulf of America Red Snapper Recreational For-Hire Season Southeast Southeast More Bulletins Upcoming Events There are currently no upcoming events. More Events Open Funding Opportunities There are currently no open funding opportunities. More Opportunities FACT 201 million recreational fishing trips In 2022, recreational anglers took 201 million saltwater fishing trips in the continental United States and Hawai’i. FACT 3,000+ active survey sites Our partners interview anglers at thousands of marinas, boat ramps, beaches, and other publicly accessible fishing sites across 16 coastal states. FACT 3 general fishing surveys The Access Point Angler Intercept Survey, Fishing Effort Survey, and For-Hire Survey collect data on all of the species anglers catch. FACT 4 certified state surveys In Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, alternative general and specialized surveys help us produce more precise estimates of recreational catch. Show me another fact How We Collect Data In-person interviews, telephone and mail surveys, and electronic reporting are methods we use to collect information from private anglers and for-hire operators. While we could never collect data from all saltwater anglers, surveying a representative sample allows us to estimate catch and effort for the entire marine recreational fishing population. Learn how we sample anglers How We Estimate Recreational Catch The calculations we use to produce catch estimates can be understood as expanding catch rate, or the estimated number of fish caught per angler trip, by effort, or the estimated number of fishing trips taken in a two-month period. Learn how we produce catch estimates Explore Our Data Our searchable database of catch, effort, and fishing participation statistics allows users to filter our data by time series, geographic area, species, mode, and other characteristics. Learn about our data and statistics query tool Find a Fishing Site Our searchable database of marinas, boat ramps, beaches, and other publicly accessible fishing sites on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts includes information about site usage and amenities, and helps us determine where we should conduct in-person angler interviews. Learn about our fishing site register Marine Recreational Information Program NOAA Fisheries’ Marine Recreational Information Program is a state-regional-federal partnership that collects recreational fishing data and produces estimates of total recreationa Read More Multimedia NOAA Fisheries Video Gallery Infographic Infographic Illustrates Role of Fishing Access Site Register New England/Mid-Atlantic Southeast Collecting Data NOAA Fisheries’ Marine Recreational Information Program works with state and regional partners to implement a national network of recreational fishing surveys . We use data collected from anglers and for-hire operators to estimate the number of fish anglers catch and the number of trips they take. These recreational catch and effort estimates help scientists and managers assess and maintain sustainable fish stocks. How We Collect Data From in-person interviews to electronic reporting, different methods of data collection help us gather information from the recreational fishing community. The Marine Recreational Information Program does not administer private angler reporting apps or for-hire electronic logbooks. However, electronic reporting technologies do support the conduct of our Access Point Intercept Survey . Learn how we collect data from the recreational fishing community Our Network of Recreational Fishing Surveys Unique regions have unique fisheries, fishing communities, and preferred methods of collecting recreational fishing data. For this reason, our recreational fishing surveys are regionally specific. While our partnership includes more than 25 data collection programs across the United States, program staff at NOAA Fisheries’ Office of Science and Technology administer four recreational fishing surveys in Hawaii and along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Our three general surveys—which include the Access Point Angler Intercept Survey , Fishing Effort Survey , and For-Hire Survey —provide annual catch estimates for all species encountered. Our specialized Large Pelagics Survey provides annual catch estimates for select fisheries during a select fishing season. Learn about our recreational fishing surveys Collecting Recreational Fishing Data Learn how NOAA Fisheries' Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) collects recreational fishing data, especially through surveys. More Information National Saltwater Angler Registry Public Fishing Access Site Register MRIP Survey Design and Statistical Methods Producing Estimates NOAA Fisheries’ Marine Recreational Information Program provides open access to the information needed to understand the recreational fishing data that inform science and management decisions and the way these data were produced. Survey Statistics The exact number and species of finfish caught by marine recreational anglers is impossible to determine, because one complete marine recreational fishing census is impossible to administer or verify. But we can be confident in our recreational catch estimates because they are derived from sound survey methods . These methods have been developed, tested, and reviewed by independent experts in survey design. Sampling populations, weighting sampled units, and accounting for errors, outliers, and uncertainty are important steps in our work to estimate recreational catch. Learn the fundamentals of survey statistics Estimation Methods At its core, estimating total recreational catch involves multiplying catch rate (the average number of fish caught per angler trip) by effort (the total number of fishing trips taken). Each step of our estimation process also involves statistical weighting. This ensures important aspects of our sample design—like the fact that some fishing sites are more likely to be selected as a sample location or some anglers are more likely to participate in a fishing survey—are correctly reflected in our final estimates. Learn the fundamentals of weighted estimation Calibration Stock assessors and fisheries managers base their work on continuous, uninterrupted time series of fisheries statistics. The transition to new or improved recreational fishing survey designs can disrupt this time series, producing new estimates that aren't directly comparable to legacy estimates. Calibration is a statistical process that accounts for the drivers of differences between two data sets. While there is no "one size fits all" calibration method, the purpose of calibration is always the same: to allow estimates from one survey design to be expressed in the units, or "currency," of another. This process maintains one consistent time series when survey methods change. Learn how NOAA Fisheries has used calibration to transition to new survey designs Producing Estimates for Recreational Fishing We estimate recreational fishing catch data using sound survey designs, fisheries statistics, and other estimation methods. More Information An Introduction to Marine Recreational Information Program Data MRIP Survey Design and Statistical Methods Using the Data NOAA Fisheries’ Marine Recreational Information Program provides open access to the data collected by its recreational fishing surveys and the calculated statistical values produced from this information. Data Queries, Downloads, and Updates There are several ways to access our recreational fishing data. You can use the query tool to filter recreational fisheries statistics by time series, geographic area, species, mode, and other characteristics. You can also download our public-use datasets and template programs to perform your own custom analyses. A complete list of updates to our data, estimates, and queries can be found on our Recreational Fishing Estimate Updates page. To be notified of these updates, subscribe to our email service . Query the data Download the data Learn about data availability, data review, and data use considerations Guidance for Data Users An Introduction to MRIP Data provides an overview of our data products; collection, estimation, and publication schedules; review processes; and use considerations. MRIP Survey Design and Statistical Methods describes the technical details of our recreational fishing surveys, as well as the methods we use to produce catch and effort estimates. The MRIP Data User Handbook and accompanying MRIP Data User Seminar Series provide more detailed information about downloading, exporting, querying, and performing custom statistical analyses. Our Data’s Role in Science and Management Our recreational catch estimates are an important source of consistent catch information for monitoring and assessing U.S. fish stocks. Our estimates are combined with commercial catch data, biological research, and information gathered from direct observations of fisheries to help scientists assess stock size and sustainable harvest levels. Fisheries managers use this information to set regulations that promote the long-term health of fish populations. Learn about fisheries management and MRIP Using Recreational Fishing Data Access and use our recreational fishing data—query, download, export, and analyze our collected recreational fishing information. More Information Data Queries Data Downloads Data Glossary Timeline of Data Additions and Updates Metadata (InPort) Ensuring Sound Science NOAA Fisheries’ Marine Recreational Information Program is committed to leveraging emerging science and statistical expertise to meet stock assessment and management needs. Ongoing Research Funding and conducting research to review and improve recreational fishing data collection allows us to keep pace with emerging science and information needs while producing the high-quality data that support science and management. Learn about our research Survey and Data Standards To promote data quality, consistency, and comparability across our recreational fishing surveys, we've established a suite of survey and data standards. These standards reflect best practices currently in place at the U.S. Census Bureau, National Center for Health Statistics, and other federal agencies, as well as statistical survey guidelines published by the Office of Management and Budget. Ultimately, the standards will further ensure the integrity of our data collection efforts, the quality of our recreational fisheries statistics, and the strength of science-based management decisions.  Learn about our survey and data standards Survey Design Certification Our process for reviewing the statistical rigor of a recreational fishing survey design is known as certification. To earn certification, survey designs and estimation methods must adhere to applicable standards and pass a peer review. For new surveys to inform the federal stock assessments and management decisions, survey sponsors must develop and execute a Transition Plan. These plans describe how historical estimates will be places into the "currency" of the new or improved design. Learn about our certification and transition policies and procedures Data Review We follow best practices to minimize the potential for error in our estimates. Our quality assurance procedures prevent invalid data from entering our system. Our quality control procedures help us detect and correct errors that make it into our data.  Learn about our data review process Programmatic Reviews We have participated in several independent programmatic reviews. In all cases, we have used the resulting recommendations to improve how we collect, analyze, and report recreational fishing data. In recent years, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine have recognized our state-of-the-art sampling methods, critically important data, and impressive progress in improving the statistical rigor of our survey designs. Learn about our programmatic reviews The Science and Review of Recreational Fishing Data We ensure sound science when it comes to our recreational fishing data by staying on top of emerging science, data standards, and industry reviews and certifications. More Information MRIP Reports Database MRIP Survey Design and Statistical Methods Recreational Fishing Data Resources Find documents, data and maps, research and other resources about recreational fishing data. Documents Document Gulf of America State Survey Transition Projected Timeline This chart outlines the Gulf of America's Marine Recreational Information Program Partnership's… Southeast Document MRIP Regional Implementation Plan for the Gulf of America This Regional Implementation Plan informs recreational fishing data collection efforts in the Gulf… Southeast Document 2026 Transition Plan for the Improved Fishing Effort Survey This document outlines the Marine Recreational Information Program partnership's plan to transition… New England/Mid-Atlantic Pacific Islands Southeast Document Test of a Revised Fishing Effort Survey, 2025 Study Report This report presents findings from a year-long NOAA Fisheries study conducted throughout 2024 that… New England/Mid-Atlantic Pacific Islands Southeast More Documents Recreational Fishing Data Resources Find documents, data and maps, research and other resources about recreational fishing data. Data & Maps Map Alaska Recreational Fishing Communities Interactive Map Community Profiles: Map showing participation in recreational fishing by residents of Alaska… Alaska More Data More Maps Recreational Fishing Data Resources Find documents, data and maps, research and other resources about recreational fishing data. Research Peer-Reviewed Research 2025 Peer Review of the Revised Fishing Effort Survey and NOAA Fisheries Response This document compiles individual independent peer review reports, conducted through the Center for… New England/Mid-Atlantic Pacific Islands Southeast Peer-Reviewed Research 2025 Fishing Effort Survey Calibration Model Peer Review Summary Report This report summarizes the September 2025 independent scientific peer review of the Marine… New England/Mid-Atlantic Pacific Islands Southeast Cooperative Research in the Southeast Cooperative research involves partnerships between the fishing industry and scientists. We work together to improve our understanding of ocean ecosystems and support the management of sustainable and productive fisheries. Southeast South Atlantic Red Snapper Exempted Fishing Permits - Aug 2024 - July 2025 The National Marine Fisheries Service has issued three EFPs to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Southeast More Research Recreational Fishing Data Resources Find documents, data and maps, research and other resources about recreational fishing data. Outreach & Education Outreach Materials Fishing Effort Survey At-a-Glance Fact Sheet This fact sheet answers common questions about the Marine Recreational Information Program's mail… New England/Mid-Atlantic Pacific Islands Southeast Outreach Materials Gulf of America For-Hire Data Makes a Difference An infographic of the various for-hire recreational fishing data collection programs along the Gulf… Southeast Outreach Materials NOAA Fisheries and Gulf of America State Recreational Fishing Data Collection Handout This handout explains how NOAA Fisheries supports the development and implementation of Gulf state… Southeast Outreach Materials Hawaiʻi Non-Commercial Fisheries Data Collection This handout describes how non-commercial fishing data is collected and used in Hawaiʻi to inform… Pacific Islands More Outreach Materials More Educational Materials